DC Master Naturalist Program
Explore Environmental Conservation, Community Science, and Stewardship in Washington, D.C.
The DC Master Naturalist Program trains volunteers in environmental conservation, environmental education, and citizen science. Participants gain research-based knowledge and hands-on experience while supporting the protection and stewardship of natural resources throughout the District of Columbia.
Graduates become Certified DC Master Naturalists and serve their communities through volunteer service, public education, outreach, and environmental initiatives that promote sustainable and healthy urban ecosystems.
Mission
The DC Master Naturalist Program prepares volunteers to become environmental stewards by providing training in conservation, environmental education, and citizen science.
The program connects residents with local nature and empowers them to support conservation efforts, community engagement, and environmental sustainability throughout Washington, D.C.
Program priorities reflect the environmental needs of the District and are guided by UDC's land-grant mission, Delivering on the Promise, and the sustainability goals of the District of Columbia.
Who Can Participate?
The DC Master Naturalist Program is open to:
- District of Columbia residents
- Adults 18 years of age and older
- Individuals interested in environmental conservation
- Community members who want to volunteer and share their knowledge with others
Participants from all eight wards are encouraged to apply.
How the Program Works
The DC Master Naturalist Program consists of training, volunteer service, and ongoing education.
Step 1: Apply
Applications are accepted during the annual application period.
Because space is limited, applications are reviewed to ensure representation from all eight wards of the District. Applicants are evaluated based on their interest in volunteer service and commitment to urban environmental conservation.
Selected applicants are notified by the DC Master Naturalist Coordinator.
Step 2: Become a Trainee
Accepted participants complete approximately 30 hours of instruction led by UDC faculty, Extension educators, and local environmental experts.
Training covers a variety of topics related to urban ecology, conservation, and environmental stewardship.
Upon completion of the training, participants advance to the Intern phase.
Step 3: Complete Volunteer Service
Master Naturalist Interns complete a minimum of 40 hours of approved volunteer service within 12 months of training completion.
Volunteer projects provide hands-on experience while supporting environmental education and conservation efforts throughout the District.
Step 4: Become a Certified Master Naturalist
After completing training and volunteer service requirements, participants earn certification as a DC Master Naturalist.
Training Curriculum
The DC Master Naturalist curriculum introduces environmental conservation and urban ecology with a focus on practical application in Washington, D.C.
Training Topics May Include:
- Urban ecology
- Native plants and pollinators
- Watershed protection
- Wildlife conservation
- Environmental stewardship
- Citizen science
- Sustainable land management
- Forest and tree health
- Climate resilience
- Environmental education and outreach
Training includes classroom instruction, field experiences, and opportunities to learn from local experts.
Training Schedule
The instructional portion of the program consists of approximately 30 hours of learning over 5–10 weeks.
Most classes are held:
- Weekday evenings
- 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
- UDC Van Ness Campus
Some sessions may include field trips and outdoor learning experiences throughout the District.
Volunteer Commitment
The volunteer phase is designed to provide practical, real-world experience.
Interns select projects that align with their interests and complete volunteer service with approved organizations and programs throughout Washington, D.C.
Volunteer opportunities may include:
- Community science projects
- Environmental education programs
- Habitat restoration initiatives
- Urban forestry projects
- Pollinator conservation efforts
- Sustainability and stewardship events
The goal is to build confidence, strengthen skills, and create meaningful community impact.
Maintaining Certification
To remain an Active Certified Master Naturalist, participants must complete annually:
- 20 hours of approved volunteer service
- 10 hours of continuing education
Continuing education opportunities may include workshops, conferences, seminars, field studies, and advanced environmental training.